Will Shifting to P Gear Before the Car Stops Damage the Transmission?
2 Answers
If you shift into P gear before the car comes to a complete stop, it can damage the P gear locking mechanism of the transmission. Therefore, it is recommended to ensure the car is fully stopped before shifting into P gear to avoid transmission damage. Maintaining proper driving habits is essential when using the vehicle. Automatic transmissions in cars are equipped with a P gear, which stands for Parking gear and is used when parking and turning off the engine. Here is a brief introduction: After shifting into P gear, the locking mechanism inside the transmission locks the transmission's output shaft, effectively preventing the wheels from moving. Even without engaging the handbrake, the car will not move once P gear is engaged. However, it is crucial to firmly apply the handbrake after shifting into P gear. Failing to do so can exert excessive force on the P gear locking mechanism, potentially causing damage to it.
I occasionally make this mistake while driving, but experience has taught me that shifting into Park before the car comes to a complete stop can indeed damage the transmission. The P gear is designed to lock the output shaft and keep the vehicle stationary. However, if you force it into Park while the car is still slightly moving, the internal parking pawl will be forcibly jammed into the gear, causing a strong impact. Over time, this may lead to gear fractures or wear, resulting in transmission noise, vibration, or failure. An old friend of mine used to park this way habitually, and it caused premature transmission damage, costing thousands in repairs. So now, I've developed the habit of waiting until the car comes to a complete stop and the speed drops to zero before shifting into Park, avoiding unnecessary damage. Remember, small details like this in automatic transmission cars directly affect their lifespan. Developing good habits can save you a lot of money and trouble.
